Key Factors UK Cat Owners Value in Veterinary Clinics

Choosing and registering with a local vet if you’re a cat owner is essential, not only for emergency support but also for ongoing preventative healthcare. In 2025, UK cat owners consider several key factors when selecting a veterinary clinic to ensure their cat receives the best care possible.

1. Cat-Friendly Clinic Accreditation

Many cat owners look for clinics accredited by the Cat Friendly Clinic scheme, which ensures a stress-free, gentle, and cat-specific approach. Clinics with Bronze, Silver, or Gold accreditation provide comforting environments, quiet waiting areas separated from dogs, and vets experienced in feline care. This focus on reducing stress is increasingly important to UK owners who want their cats to feel calm and safe during visits.

2. Proximity and Accessibility

For 57% of UK cat owners, proximity to home or workplace is the most significant factor when choosing a clinic. Easy access by car or public transport is vital to support timely visits, especially in emergencies, recognising that cats can find travel stressful. Cat owners also check if the clinic offers its own out-of-hours emergency service nearby, as relying on distant out-of-hours services can negate the benefit of closeness.

3. Vaccination and Preventative Care

Routine vaccinations remain a top priority for 60% of cat owners to protect against contagious diseases. Many veterinary clinics, especially Cat Friendly ones, facilitate vaccinations with expertise and care tailored to cats’ needs. Preventative treatments such as flea and worming prescriptions, which require registration with a vet, also guide owners to choose clinics offering these services reliably.

4. Availability of Emergency and Out-of-Hours Care

Access to emergency care is critical. Nearly half of cat owners use their regular vet for out-of-hours emergencies, appreciating clear communication, treatment quality, and familiarity with their cat’s history. Owners consider clinics offering their own emergency coverage preferable to those relying on external providers, which may involve travel to other towns, especially when stress on cats is considered.

5. Recommendations and Appointment Convenience

Word-of-mouth, online reviews, and the friendliness of veterinary staff play a powerful role. Cat owners highly value veterinarians who demonstrate care and patience with cats, making booking appointments promptly and conveniently another important factor in their choice.

6. Cost Considerations

While veterinary care is often seen as expensive, cost is generally a secondary consideration. Trust, the perceived quality of care, and the clinic’s ability to provide tailored, compassionate service tend to weigh more heavily in decision-making.

In summary, UK cat owners in 2025 prioritise cat-friendly environments, convenient location, trusted recommendations, reliable emergency services, and thorough preventative care when choosing a vet. These factors align with current veterinary guidance focusing on stress reduction and quality communication to ensure cats receive the best lifelong health care.